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There are many different types of kinesiology, but all involve testing muscles in order to assess and address imbalances within the body, which may be affecting the person’s health and well-being.
As a form of complementary therapy, kinesology is based on the principle that energy runs through the body along meridians or ‘channels’, all of which correspond to a particular organ or part of the body. If this energy is free -flowing and balanced within the body, the individual is believed to remain in good health. However if it becomes blocked, impaired or imbalanced, then it is said that mental, emotional or physical illness may follow.
At its simplest, kinesiology tests a range of muscles that provide ‘feedback’ about the balance of energy within the body. If a particular muscle is ‘weak’, different techniques will be applied by the therapist until the muscle responds as ‘strong’, indicating that the balance of energy in the body has been restored.
What to expect
The approach used by kinesiologists will be different for every client, based on the person’s individual needs, as well as the therapist’s training. Different techniques that may be used in any one session include gentle pressure to work specific reflex points on the head, body or feet; the use of gentle manipulation techniques; suggesting food types or supplements, or removing an ‘offending’ food or chemical from the diet; flower essences; stress release; and visualisation and positive goal setting.
Benefits of kinesiology
Kinesiology is often used as a means of support by people who have chronic conditions that may not have benefited from conventional medicine. It can also be helpful to those who are lacking confidence or feel anxious about a forthcoming event, such as an exam or job interview.
However, many therapists trained in kinesiology take the view that the ‘innate intelligence’ of the body knows what is best for it and they allow the muscle tests to determine which techniques are appropriate at any given time. In this way, each treatment is individual to the client, and aims to treat the whole person, not a specific condition or concern.
Kinesiology should not be used in place of conventional medical care. Always consult a GP or other health professional for medical attention and advice.
Choosing a therapist
It is important to choose a qualified kinesiologist who has undertaken the necessary training to understand the theory and practice of this technique.
In order for a qualification to be accepted for FHT membership and to the FHT Therapist Register, it must meet the following criteria:
Standards
Skills for Health National Occupational Standards:
- CH-K1 Assess the needs of the client – Kinesiology
- CH-K2 Treat the client and give guidance on self-help Kinesiology
All qualifications related to the FHT’s Register modalities must be reviewed by the FHT Education Panel. The qualification is reviewed by an expert in that particular therapy prior to the registrant being accepted to the FHT Therapist Register.
Training Required
Practical led and observed training. This will ensure the course is mapped to the above standards.
By choosing a kinesiologist who is an FHT member, you can be confident that they are professionally trained, qualified and insured. They will also be listed on our FHT Therapist Register, as kinesiology is considered a form of complementary healthcare.
To check that an FHT member is on the FHT Therapist Register